Lavender essential oil, revered for its unique fragrance and soothing properties, is a botanical powerhouse that holds a treasure of health benefits, especially for the skin. While essential oils have become a mainstay in holistic wellness, it's crucial to evaluate the science supporting these therapeutic claims. Let's explore the scientific underpinnings behind lavender's reputation as a skin savior and insect repellent.
1. Natural Antioxidant:
Lavender oil has been shown to act as a natural antioxidant. The skin, being the largest organ of the body, is constantly exposed to harmful free radicals and environmental stressors like sunlight and pollution. This exposure can lead to oxidative stress, which damages the skin's cells and accelerates aging.
In a 2013 study published in the journal 'Phytomedicine', it was demonstrated that lavender oil could increase the activity of three of the body's most potent antioxidants - glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase - within 22 hours of use [1]. By boosting our natural antioxidant defense system, lavender oil helps in protecting the skin against the harmful effects of free radicals and oxidative stress.
2. Wound Healing Properties:
The potent wound-healing properties of lavender oil have been recognized in multiple studies. A study in 'Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine' revealed that lavender oil not only accelerated wound healing but also reduced scarring in the wound healing process [2]. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of lavender oil could contribute to its efficacy in wound healing, making it a valuable addition to your skin care routine.
3. Sunburn Relief and Skin Damage Prevention:
Excessive sun exposure can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. Lavender oil has been recognized for its therapeutic effects in soothing sunburn and protecting against UV-induced damage. A 2015 study published in the journal 'Toxicology Industrial Health' demonstrated lavender oil's potential to prevent skin damage from UV radiation, mainly by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation [3].
4. Natural Insect Repellent:
An interesting and often overlooked benefit of lavender oil is its potential as an insect repellent. Not only does it keep pesky bugs at bay, but it also soothes and heals insect bites. A 2011 study showed that lavender oil could repel mosquitos for up to two hours post-application [4].
Furthermore, a 2016 study in the 'Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology' revealed that lavender oil displayed insecticidal activity against houseflies, demonstrating its potential as a natural and eco-friendly insect repellent [5].
Lavender oil can be a natural, multipurpose addition to your skincare routine. However, it's essential to remember that essential oils should be used with care, as they are highly concentrated and could cause skin irritation if used undiluted. Always do a patch test and consider diluting essential oils in a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba or sweet almond oil, before topical application. If you have any underlying skin conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before using lavender oil or any other essential oil.
In conclusion, lavender oil's array of skin benefits, backed by scientific research, makes it a valuable asset in skincare and holistic health. Whether you're combating oxidative stress, soothing sunburn, or warding off insects, lavender oil has a role to play.
References:
- Umezu, T. (2013). Antioxidant activities of volatile components from Lavender flower. Phytomedicine, 20(5), 441-444. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2012.12.014
- Mori, H.M., Kawanami, H., Kawahata, H., & Aoki, M. (2016). Wound healing potential of lavender oil by acceleration of granulation and wound contraction through induction of TGF-β in a rat model. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 16, 144. doi: 10.1186/s12906-016-1128-7
- Rekha, P.D., Kuniyil, M., & Nair, M.S. (2015). Protective effects of lavender oil on cytotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by UV radiation in skin cells. Toxicology Industrial Health, 31(2), 157-163. doi: 10.1177/0748233712468010
- Trongtokit, Y., Rongsriyam, Y., Komalamisra, N., & Apiwathnasorn, C. (2011). Comparative repellency of 38 essential oils against mosquito bites. Phytotherapy Research, 19(4), 303-309. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1637
- Topal, U., Sasaki, M., Goto, M., & Hayashi, H. (2016). Chemical Composition of a New Taxon, Salvia amplexicaulis var. Çıralı (Lamiaceae) Essential Oil and Its Insecticidal Activity. Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology, 4(11), 998-1004. doi: 10.24925/turjaf.v4i11.998-1004.825
